Madieu Williams Returns to Speak with Terps
2/10/2016 12:00:00 AM | Football
Former Maryland football standout and nine-year NFL veteran Madieu Williams returned to campus on Wednesday morning to address the Terps football team.
William's message had nothing to do with football though.
Despite recording 587 career tackles, 13 interceptions and scoring two touchdowns at the game's highest level, Williams will be forever be known for what he's done off the field.
Born and raised in Sierra Leone, West Africa, Williams has never forgotten where he came from. He returns to his birthplace each year attempting to help kids get an education, an opportunity he wasn't afforded until his family moved to the States when he was nine.
Williams, the 2010 Walter Payton Man of the Year, has seen his efforts result in a school being built on the outskirts of Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone. The school is the first of its kind in the community.
His work in Africa is just a small part of what the Maryland graduate had done to give back in the community and that was the message he brought to the current crop of Terps on Thursday.
“Being selfless and being a servant leader is what drives me,” said Williams. “Not everyone will play on Sundays, but you can still win in life, make a difference in the community and win with your families.”
Williams advised the current players to strive to make an impact both on and off the field. He noted how important it is for those that are blessed with certain skills or attributes to pay it forward. Williams spoke about how football players have a tremendous platform to make a difference and that they should leave their marks not only on the playing field, but also in the community.
“Beyond suiting up on Saturdays, you can make a big impact in the world,” explained Williams. “It could be something as small as reading books to school kids or volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club in your hometown.”
With the help of Maryland students in the A. James Clark School of Engineering, Williams is hoping to build more schools – and libraries – in Sierra Leone. He's also created a life skills program – DIEU's Crew – that numerous Maryland student-athletes volunteer at. Additionally, the Madieu Williams Foundation (founded in 2005) focuses on health, wellness, nutrition, fitness and education. Through his foundation, Williams reaches out to youth and teaches them at an early age the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
“I feel extremely fortunate that I get the chance to go back and help,” said Williams. “But football is the ultimate team sport and nobody is above the team. It's no different being a servant leader. I need my team and various partnerships to help make a difference in the community. So many people have given of themselves to make a difference in the lives of these kids.”
Williams left the Terps with one final note. Knowing the life of the student-athlete, he realizes they all have what it takes to make a difference.
“Set high goals, shoot for the stars and work towards those lofty goals,” stated Williams. “Student-athletes have tremendous work ethics. Not everyone can get up at 5 a.m. for workouts and do all of the things you have to do to be great. Use that work ethic in all things in your life and make a difference.”
It was obvious that William's message made an impact with the players as they gave him a standing ovation at the conclusion.
“It was cool to hear his story and it was a really inspirational message,” said senior fullback Kenneth Goins Jr. “Growing up I always wanted to help out in the community so hearing his message is only going to push me. I definitely want to talk to Madieu more. It makes me want to get out there and make something happen to make a difference.”
-Maryland-
